IKEA Batu Kawan Groundbreaking Ceremony

Speech by Chief Minister of Penang
IKEA Batu Kawan Groundbreaking Ceremony
Tuesday, 12 September 2017

A very good morning to all of you.

First and foremost, I would like to thank IKEA for inviting me to this momentous occasion for Batu Kawan and the people of Penang. It is my pleasure to officiate the groundbreaking ceremony signalling the start of construction for IKEA Batu Kawan – the first IKEA store in Penang and Northern Malaysia.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The state of Penang is fortunate as it has continued to enjoy tremendous growth and development over the years. Penang is edging closer towards becoming a location of choice for investors and tourists, not only in Malaysia but for the region as well.

Beyond that, Penang is also increasingly recognised as a locale of choice for residents who desire a liveable and sustainable environment. This is evident from the recent 2016 Migration Report by the Malaysian Department of Statistics. Penang recorded the highest figures of interstate migration with a net influx of 12,000 new residents between 2015 and 20161.

Keeping up with this excellent track record, the Penang State Government aims to develop Batu Kawan as its third satellite city that will serve as the integrated central business district (CBD) and lifestyle hub for the Northern region. This is essential to our ambition of making Penang an international and intelligent state that is also attractive to live, learn, work and play.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

IKEA store is expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2019. The project investment value is approaching RM 600 Million. Further, IKEA has a strong reputation in sustainability efforts.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

As a well-loved brand amongst Malaysians, I am certain that together with the other catalyst projects in Batu Kawan, IKEA will provide a great boost to our economy. IKEA is like a magnet for Batu Kawan. The store will not only attract millions of shoppers but it will bring hundreds of new jobs, create spin-off business for suppliers, draw in tourists and new investors.

Of course, when we talk about IKEA, it is more than just the economic benefits. We couldn’t leave out mentioning its widely popular meatballs and curry puffs that are coming to our shores. I can’t wait to get a taste of these IKEA signature dishes myself after this ceremony.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Before I end my speech, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the business community, PDC and the state government for their contribution to Penang’s progress. Together, let’s embrace the future and make Penang that is clean, green, safe and healthy, a model state for the rest of Malaysia.

With this, I now officiate the groundbreaking ceremony for the first IKEA store in Penang and Northern Malaysia, IKEA Batu Kawan.

Thank you!